The next FB-111? Or the next Tu-160?

As we all know the USAF is looking into a next-generation supersonic bomber. The question is, will we go with the quick fix and get an FB-111 style aircraft in the vein of the FB-22, a Tu-160 style heavy aircraft with great range in the vein of a modified QSP design, or something different altogether?

So far, these are the likely options:

1. The so-called “B-1R”

2. The FB-22

3. Apparently something based on the YF-23A

4. A design evolved from the QSP program

5. Something entirely different. For this one, here’s two thoughts. A hypersonic, exoatmospheric design in the vein of the NASP X-30, or a revamped A-12 (not supersonic, but the knowledge and design base is there as a potential dark-horse offering. Little or no chance though, but I thought I’d throw it in there anyway)

#3 is the most intriguing option. The USAF wants a fast, stealthy, long-range aircraft. Going with an F-22 or F-23 derivative means you don’t get the transoceanic range that is wanted, but you get more aircraft for the price, and you get them sooner. Since the YF-23A proved to be stealthier than the F-22 design in flight testing, as well as faster, it would seem to be the more capable option (totally disregarding US Government contract law at this point, but still…). Weapons and fuel carriage could be enhanced by increasing the length of the fuselage spine (there’s nothing between the engine trunks on the underfuselage to preclude longer bay doors). Plans for a twin-seater were at least dreafted, as for a while there was a two-seat requirement in the ATF program to replace the F-15C/D. Likewise, as part of the final proposal, there would have had to have been production tooling plans, etc, so setting up shop somewhere wouldn’t be too bad.

The other option is to get a lesser number of the intermediate-range aircraft and then accelerate and get a lesser number of the long-range aircraft. That, of course, would most likely be in Lockheed’s favor, as they could keep costs down by drawing on the already in-place F-22 production base.

Any thoughts, people?